It's not always easy to be healthy during the school year. With barely anytime to do homework between classes and extracurricular activities, who has time to cook or go to the gym? Here are a few tips for being healthy and avoiding that freshman (or sophomore, junior, senior) 15.

1. Snacking

I often fall victim to snacking. I always have something to eat on me, and am typically hungry all the time. I’ve found that the best way to avoid being unhealthy is to eliminate fatty/greasy snacks from my kitchen all together and keep only healthy snacks with in reach. This includes fruit, low calorie snacks and organic options.

2. Exercise

While the gym is not for everyone, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a way to incorporate physical activity into your lifestyle. Try walking more or taking the stairs instead of elevators. It is important to do at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day to make sure you stay healthy.

3. Meals

When time is restricted, it can be hard not to stop at a food truck and get a quick meal that probably isn’t super healthy. Instead, go to the supermarket at least once a week and buy pre-made meals that are low in calories, fat and carbs. Brands such as Lean Cuisine can provide the nutrition you need when in a time crunch. Also make sure to eat at least three meals a day, skipping a meal can cause over eating. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day.

4. Drink Water

Water is the most important part of our days. It hydrates us, keeps us feeling fresh, and keeps our bodies healthy. While it is tempting to drink a soda or maybe a few cups of coffee, caffeine is actually dehydrating to the body. Water is the best way to wake up your system.

Eating healthy in college doesn't have to be a chore or hard! It can be made easy with these quick four steps that can help keep you on track to a healthy life style. Try them out and you probably won't be disappointed.